Back Pain Treatment in Edinburgh. Physiotherapy That Works.
Back pain physiotherapy has changed a great deal in the last 20 years. We used to look at back pain purely ‘pathoanatomically’ (what injury is there – patho and which bit is injured – anatomical), but now we realise that pain is more complicated than that.
Firstly, you can get back pain from injury to almost any tissues in or around the area (most of which we cannot test accurately) and even more importantly you can get back pain without any injury!
So we now describe our approach for back pain as being ‘biopsychosocial’ (we do love our techno speak!).
In simple terms the pain is likely to have biological, psychological and social aspects, which we try to identify during our consultation, and allow this to lead the treatment we provide.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can be triggered by a wide range of issues — from sudden injuries to long-term habits, or a build up of stress events.
Common causes of low back pain are complex but most likely include stress, muscle tension, muscle strain, ligamentous strain and an over-protective nervous system. Leg pain associated with the back can come from referral from these sources or from direct pressure on the nerve in the back – commonly known as sciatica.
There are lots of myths around what causes back pain including bulging discs, arthritis and ‘poor’ posture, but all these factors exist in the pain free population and can exist in you once you are pain-free and so do not cause back pain. Lifestyle factors and beliefs will have a significant impact on your pain and recovery.
At Physis, we take the time to assess your symptoms thoroughly to identify the underlying cause of your pain. Understanding the root of the issue allows us to tailor your physiotherapy treatment for lasting results.
How Physiotherapy Can Help?
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for managing and resolving back pain. Ask anyone in the medical profession about back pain and they will tell you that 95% of all back pain should be managed conservatively without the need for specialist hospital interventions.
Physiotherapists are ideally placed to manage back pain.
At Physis Physiotherapy, we use an evidence-based approach that always includes education and may include techniques such as manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, behavioural modification, and soft tissue work to reduce pain and restore movement.
Our expert physiotherapists not only treat your current symptoms but also equip you with the tools and knowledge to prevent future flare-ups.
Whether your pain is acute or chronic, we’ll work with you every step of the way to empower you to regain your normal movement, build strength, improve mobility, and regain control of your body.
Back pain treatment should be individual.
Whilst we recognise that some back pain problems will have common themes, pain is highly individual. Establishing which components of the problem need the greatest focus means that our skills in assessment need to be broad so that it is possible to be specific in directing the treatment.
Since the components of your back pain may not be purely physical, communication is vital. We take care to listen to your worries and concerns about your pain and deal with any inconsistencies in your beliefs regarding your problem. Persistent back pain problems are often associated with faulty beliefs that are perpetuated by friends, relatives and some well meaning health and fitness professionals. This can be quite an epiphany for some people who have had back problems for years and a huge step to getting better.
As physiotherapists, we are experts in pain. That is what we deal with on a daily basis. Over 99% of people that seek our help do so because they are in pain. Having a reasonable understanding of pain as a patient can make a huge difference to your recovery.
But it is not all talk.
We are physical therapists at heart and have the skills required to pick up movement restrictions, muscle imbalances and movement control issues. This means we can provide physical treatments that will give you relief from your back pain, such as massage, mobilisations, joint manipulations, acupuncture dry needling, electrotherapy or taping. All these treatments can help reduce your back pain, but they are not the cure.
This means you may benefit from treatment within the clinic, but you may only need to do some simple exercises out with the clinic to allow you to return to normal. Any exercises or postures will be individualised to your body type, work and social background. Simple changes in the way you sit or stand, from gentle exercise to more intense workouts and looking more broadly at your general health and fitness. What treatment you get will depend upon your individual goals which will be discussed in your first session.
But the cure requires the whole package- the bio-psycho-social directed treatments and the modifications of your behaviour, thoughts, and beliefs that go with it.
Why Choose Physis Physiotherpay for Back Pain Relief in Edinburgh?
“Physis has been helping people across Edinburgh recover from back pain for over 20 years. Our team of highly experienced physiotherapists are known for their hands-on, personalised approach and deep understanding of musculoskeletal health. We focus on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, and our treatments are tailored to your lifestyle and goals. With modern clinics, flexible appointments, and a proven track record of success, Physis is trusted by thousands of patients throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians. When you choose Physis, you’re choosing expert care with lasting results.”
Book a Physiotherapy Session in Edinburgh Today
Don’t let back pain disrupt your daily life any longer.
At Physis Physiotherapy, our expert physiotherapists in Edinburgh are ready to help you move with confidence again.
Whether you’re struggling with long-term lower back pain, recovering from a sports injury, or managing pain from poor posture, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan that targets the root cause.
Conveniently located across Edinburgh, our clinics offer flexible appointments available almost immediately, 6 days a week in and a friendly, professional and clinical environment.
Book your physiotherapy session today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Our Clinics
We have four Edinburgh Physiotherapy Clinics for you to choose from.
Edinburgh City Centre
230 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EA
Edinburgh South
34 Mayfield Gardens, Edinburgh, EH9 2BY
Edinburgh North
26 Craighall Road, Edinburgh, EH6 4SA
Edinburgh West
Westwoods Health Club, 7 West Woods, Edinburgh, EH4 1RA
